WEST Hampstead residents are celebrating after council planners threw out proposals for a block of flats. Plans for 40 flats at number one Mill Lane were slammed by residents who said it would be an eyesore ruining the character of the area. Camden Counci

WEST Hampstead residents are celebrating after council planners threw out proposals for a block of flats.

Plans for 40 flats at number one Mill Lane were slammed by residents who said it would be an eyesore ruining the character of the area.

Camden Council refused the application because the level of affordable housing would be significantly below the 50 per cent target.

Campaigners are still concerned for the future and fear the saga is not over yet.

Jane Evans, from the Mill Lane development residents action group, said: "I am gratified that it was refused but I know that this is probably just the first round.

"The things the residents were worried about were not regarded as reasons for refusal by the officers - such as the size and look of the building - although councillors did raise concerns about the bulk and mass of the block.

"I do not know what they are going to do now so we will just have to wait and see."

James Earl, vice-chairman of the Fordwych residents association, said: "We are obviously quite pleased that it was refused but the main reason was down to the lack of affordable housing. I do not think it is by any means the end of the matter and we are a little bit worried about what will happen now.

"We have won the first battle but there is plenty more to come.